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Marked
"Not all Shadowborn are the same.
Each one is different.
I've seen some that can slip through walls, some that can even manipulate the dark into nightmares."
They say the marked ones will only bring death and destruction, but what if theyre wrong?
Blair's town has been whispering of a potential threat. The stories of this looming danger spread like wildfire, instilling fear in everyone. As she starts to uncover clues to a secret that could change everything, shadows attack.
Forced to flee with Damien, a sarcastic and guarded man bound to the shadows, Blair is thrust into his world. Pursued by Hunters and weary of the deadly power Damien wields, she discovers there is more to him, the world of Shadowborn,and the abilities they wield.
While enemies are revealed and secrets start to unravel, Blair must decide if its better to run from the darkness or embrace it.
Each one is different.
I've seen some that can slip through walls, some that can even manipulate the dark into nightmares."
They say the marked ones will only bring death and destruction, but what if theyre wrong?
Blair's town has been whispering of a potential threat. The stories of this looming danger spread like wildfire, instilling fear in everyone. As she starts to uncover clues to a secret that could change everything, shadows attack.
Forced to flee with Damien, a sarcastic and guarded man bound to the shadows, Blair is thrust into his world. Pursued by Hunters and weary of the deadly power Damien wields, she discovers there is more to him, the world of Shadowborn,and the abilities they wield.
While enemies are revealed and secrets start to unravel, Blair must decide if its better to run from the darkness or embrace it.
- GenresMagic
354 pages, Paperback
Published July 31, 2025
34 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
December 4, 2025
3.5 🌟
I like the take on the different forms of shadow magic. Curious where their story will go in the next book
I like the take on the different forms of shadow magic. Curious where their story will go in the next book
August 2, 2025
Loved this book, I really hope there is a next in the series as it left off on a cliffhanger. But wow what great writing. It drew my attention from the beginning. Well done Alyson! Super excited for your future as an author!
September 19, 2025
Awesome book!! Not my genre, but now I can’t wait for the next book!! I was excited for Aly when I heard she was an author from a mutual friend!! Congratulations and I can’t wait for the next one!!🥳
December 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars
Marked has an interesting premise, especially around the concept of the Shadowborn and their varied abilities, but I struggled with the execution, particularly the characters and pacing.
I had a hard time getting into the story mainly because I didn’t connect with the FMC, Blair. She lacked depth for me, and her relationship with the school children felt oddly emphasized to the point of being uncomfortable at times...they have parents, and it felt unnecessary to frame those connections the way they were. That made it difficult to settle into her character from the start and she was truly annoying.
The pacing was another major issue. The story moves extremely fast without enough context or grounding. One moment Blair is an annoying schoolteacher, and the next she’s suddenly skilled, fighting, and on the run like a ninja-in-training with a man she barely knows, who she also seems to fall in love with almost immediately. The relationship felt rushed, unrelatable, and honestly unbelievable, which made it hard not to skim at times.
While the idea of the shadows and Shadowborn was cool, the purpose and overall plot felt unclear. Hunters are after Blair because of a dagger Damien gives her, despite knowing it can be sensed and is full of shadow energy, which didn’t make much sense to me. He insists she must follow him, but there’s very little explanation as to why, and that lack of clarity continues throughout the book.
There are also several plot holes that never seem to be addressed. For example, Blair seeing shadows outside her window early on is never really revisited or explained. The entire story revolves around running somewhere to defeat Hunters and phantoms, but since they start the book already running, I was often unsure how the stakes or direction were actually changing.
That said, the story did become more interesting as it went on, and I do plan to read the second book to see how the world and plot develop. Even so, by the end, I still didn’t feel particularly invested in the characters, their personalities, banter, and dynamics often felt annoying or disconnected from the established plot.
Overall, Marked had a promising concept but struggled with character development, pacing, and coherence. A decent read with potential, but one that didn’t fully land for me.
Sonya
BookBound and Blushed
Marked has an interesting premise, especially around the concept of the Shadowborn and their varied abilities, but I struggled with the execution, particularly the characters and pacing.
I had a hard time getting into the story mainly because I didn’t connect with the FMC, Blair. She lacked depth for me, and her relationship with the school children felt oddly emphasized to the point of being uncomfortable at times...they have parents, and it felt unnecessary to frame those connections the way they were. That made it difficult to settle into her character from the start and she was truly annoying.
The pacing was another major issue. The story moves extremely fast without enough context or grounding. One moment Blair is an annoying schoolteacher, and the next she’s suddenly skilled, fighting, and on the run like a ninja-in-training with a man she barely knows, who she also seems to fall in love with almost immediately. The relationship felt rushed, unrelatable, and honestly unbelievable, which made it hard not to skim at times.
While the idea of the shadows and Shadowborn was cool, the purpose and overall plot felt unclear. Hunters are after Blair because of a dagger Damien gives her, despite knowing it can be sensed and is full of shadow energy, which didn’t make much sense to me. He insists she must follow him, but there’s very little explanation as to why, and that lack of clarity continues throughout the book.
There are also several plot holes that never seem to be addressed. For example, Blair seeing shadows outside her window early on is never really revisited or explained. The entire story revolves around running somewhere to defeat Hunters and phantoms, but since they start the book already running, I was often unsure how the stakes or direction were actually changing.
That said, the story did become more interesting as it went on, and I do plan to read the second book to see how the world and plot develop. Even so, by the end, I still didn’t feel particularly invested in the characters, their personalities, banter, and dynamics often felt annoying or disconnected from the established plot.
Overall, Marked had a promising concept but struggled with character development, pacing, and coherence. A decent read with potential, but one that didn’t fully land for me.
Sonya
BookBound and Blushed
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2025
Set in a sword-wielding world where darkness seeps through the cracks of ordinary life, Marked follows a fiercely protective schoolteacher who seeks help from a mysterious metal forger to guard her classroom against creeping shadows. But things spiral quickly when her home is set ablaze and the forger whisks her into the forest to escape the danger that now hunts them both.
As they fight for survival, their bond deepens—and with the help of a new ally, Blake, they begin to uncover just how high the stakes truly are. The chemistry between the characters is magnetic, and the slow-burning connection adds emotional depth to the danger-packed plot.
If you enjoy dark romance with shadowy magic, found family vibes, and sword-era tension, this one’s worth picking up.
Oh did I mention shadow daddy ?? 😉
July 30, 2025
ARC review: ❤️
Wow! I was not prepared to get this hooked, but this book completely pulled me in. The worldbuilding is super immersive without being confusing, and the shadow born magic system is both unique and easy to follow (which is no small feat in fantasy).
Blair and Damien’s dynamic was a total highlight for me. Their banter felt natural, their chemistry built gradually, and I loved that their personalities stayed consistent even as the romance developed, no weird personality flips or forced drama. Blair is hopeful but grounded, Damien is cold but human, and they balance each other out so well.
I also really enjoyed Blake’s humor and energy when he showed up. He added just the right amount of comic relief, and I kind of wish he’d been around earlier. The different shadow abilities between characters added depth to the combat scenes and kept things fresh.
The second half absolutely flew by. I couldn’t put it down... And yes, I’m still recovering from that cliffhanger. I need book two ASAP. Highly recommend for fantasy readers who love character-driven stories with immersive worlds and slow burn tension.
Wow! I was not prepared to get this hooked, but this book completely pulled me in. The worldbuilding is super immersive without being confusing, and the shadow born magic system is both unique and easy to follow (which is no small feat in fantasy).
Blair and Damien’s dynamic was a total highlight for me. Their banter felt natural, their chemistry built gradually, and I loved that their personalities stayed consistent even as the romance developed, no weird personality flips or forced drama. Blair is hopeful but grounded, Damien is cold but human, and they balance each other out so well.
I also really enjoyed Blake’s humor and energy when he showed up. He added just the right amount of comic relief, and I kind of wish he’d been around earlier. The different shadow abilities between characters added depth to the combat scenes and kept things fresh.
The second half absolutely flew by. I couldn’t put it down... And yes, I’m still recovering from that cliffhanger. I need book two ASAP. Highly recommend for fantasy readers who love character-driven stories with immersive worlds and slow burn tension.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2025
Omg this book!! Gimme the next one now! That ending omg!
I was very lucky to receive an ARC copy of this book, and was beyond excited to start it, it definitely did NOT disappoint!!!
Could Damien be the new shadow daddy? Possibly 🫣🤔
I loved everything about this book, the one bed was a bonus I was hoping for 😉
I also absolutely loved Blake and hope to read more of him in the next book, he constantly had me giggling
5/5 definitely recommend 🥰
I was very lucky to receive an ARC copy of this book, and was beyond excited to start it, it definitely did NOT disappoint!!!
Could Damien be the new shadow daddy? Possibly 🫣🤔
I loved everything about this book, the one bed was a bonus I was hoping for 😉
I also absolutely loved Blake and hope to read more of him in the next book, he constantly had me giggling
5/5 definitely recommend 🥰
December 27, 2025
I have been wanting to read this book for a hot minute after discovering the author on Instagram. THEN I realized she’s local, so naturally I did the most rational thing possible and absolutely did not stalk her… I just aggressively followed her event schedule until I could snag a copy. ☺️😎
I had to go to TWO👏🏼DIFFERENT👏🏼EVENTS👏🏼 because she kept selling out. Hell yeah, Alyson!!!!!
When I finally got my hands on a copy, we were chatting and something slipped out like “omg shut up!” which I immediately apologized for. However, I am here once again telling Alyson to shut up because THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD!!!!!
I was hooked. And mind you, I am not a huge fantasy girly, but the blurb + her Instagram had me curious and wow… I was fully strapped in!!!!
Blair and Damien have such amazing chemistry & banter. I loved that they respect each other instead of trying to overpower one another. Damien straight up saying he’ll always respect her free will?! Very refreshing as so many MMCs storm in like a wrecking ball and turning the FMC into a damsel in distress.
Without spoiling anything, just know I am overly excited for book two. I don’t want it soon. I don’t want it later. I want it RIGHT NOW!! 💀🤣
I had to go to TWO👏🏼DIFFERENT👏🏼EVENTS👏🏼 because she kept selling out. Hell yeah, Alyson!!!!!
When I finally got my hands on a copy, we were chatting and something slipped out like “omg shut up!” which I immediately apologized for. However, I am here once again telling Alyson to shut up because THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD!!!!!
I was hooked. And mind you, I am not a huge fantasy girly, but the blurb + her Instagram had me curious and wow… I was fully strapped in!!!!
Blair and Damien have such amazing chemistry & banter. I loved that they respect each other instead of trying to overpower one another. Damien straight up saying he’ll always respect her free will?! Very refreshing as so many MMCs storm in like a wrecking ball and turning the FMC into a damsel in distress.
Without spoiling anything, just know I am overly excited for book two. I don’t want it soon. I don’t want it later. I want it RIGHT NOW!! 💀🤣
August 25, 2025
I highly recommend this new romantasy! This story is about a sweet but sassy school teacher whos world is turned upside down by a shadow daddy. My eyes were opened up to the world of shadows and the kind of fun they can do (if you catch my drift...). I wouldn't necessarily call this one a slow burn as they fall hard and semi-fast, but I will say the chemistry is top tier. The banter and other characters were well written (Blake has my heart and is on the same shelf as Ridoc). As for the fantasy... it takes a little time to get there but the wait is so worth it. The ending definitely has you hanging off that cliff. I have so many questions and cannot wait for the reveal in the (hopefully coming soon) second book.
So yes, click buy and give it a read. You will enjoy it.
So yes, click buy and give it a read. You will enjoy it.
July 29, 2025
I am so grateful this was my first ARC! It was so good! As others mentioned, the beginning is slow as most fantasy books are but you get good background information and world building.
The author does an amazing job at really making you see and be in the world with the characters. I loved our new shadow daddy, with his broody, overprotective, dominating, but low key softie self. Blair, a teacher, was strong, protective, and "feisty" 😉. The side character we meet later on was the perfect addition for some fun banter. The cliffhanger has me so excited for book 2 and I already miss the characters!! 😍
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Grumpier/Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Spice:
🌶️🌶️.5 out of 5
The author does an amazing job at really making you see and be in the world with the characters. I loved our new shadow daddy, with his broody, overprotective, dominating, but low key softie self. Blair, a teacher, was strong, protective, and "feisty" 😉. The side character we meet later on was the perfect addition for some fun banter. The cliffhanger has me so excited for book 2 and I already miss the characters!! 😍
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Grumpier/Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Spice:
🌶️🌶️.5 out of 5
November 24, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! Everything was so well done. You know it’s a great book when it plays out like a movie in your head and it doesn’t even feel like you’re reading. The way she describes characters and scenes is amazing but not drug out. I always had a perfect picture in my head of everything. The slow burn romance was also very well done. The storyline really hooks you and drags you into the world and is so easy to follow. The spice of course was spicy 🌶️❤️. I can’t recommend this book enough and I am looking forward to book 2!
July 24, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
ARC Review:
It was a little bit of a slow start but quickly grabbed my attention around chapter 6!
It was an easy quick read that made me laugh out loud, had me giggling at the banter and even had me holding my breath at the end😅 This book had me speed reading because I just needed to know what was going to happen and it will leave you on a cliffhanger so be prepared!
The magic in this world was interesting and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!!
ARC Review:
It was a little bit of a slow start but quickly grabbed my attention around chapter 6!
It was an easy quick read that made me laugh out loud, had me giggling at the banter and even had me holding my breath at the end😅 This book had me speed reading because I just needed to know what was going to happen and it will leave you on a cliffhanger so be prepared!
The magic in this world was interesting and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!!
August 31, 2025
I loved this book!
The prologue alone had me invested as I love me a mystical dagger.
The beginning takes its time building the world, which is typical of the fantasy genre, but sprinkled through it is some beautifully descriptive language that took my breath away.
The dialogue had me quite literally laughing out loud and the chemistry between Blair and Damian is explosive!
I highly recommend this book to all Romantasy fans!
The prologue alone had me invested as I love me a mystical dagger.
The beginning takes its time building the world, which is typical of the fantasy genre, but sprinkled through it is some beautifully descriptive language that took my breath away.
The dialogue had me quite literally laughing out loud and the chemistry between Blair and Damian is explosive!
I highly recommend this book to all Romantasy fans!
September 9, 2025
4⭐️s
🌶️🌶️.5
Such a unique fantasy romance. Blair lives in a small town that is starting to see some dark times. People show up gravely injured and a new there’s a new soldiers patrolling the streets. They claim to be protecting but they are searching for magic wielding people. Blair accepts help from the local smith who gives her a blade for protection. that ends up backfiring on her & now they are on the run together!!!
🌶️🌶️.5
Such a unique fantasy romance. Blair lives in a small town that is starting to see some dark times. People show up gravely injured and a new there’s a new soldiers patrolling the streets. They claim to be protecting but they are searching for magic wielding people. Blair accepts help from the local smith who gives her a blade for protection. that ends up backfiring on her & now they are on the run together!!!
December 1, 2025
Absolutely obsessed! This romantasy had me locked in, and I couldn't put it down! What more could you want when there's spice, banter, shadow daddies, and mysterious powers at play?! The main characters go through so many obstacles emotionally and physically (love character development). I loved that the plot itself had me truly invested in guessing what would happen next! Ah, did I mention it's slow burn with forced proximity?!
August 1, 2025
ARC REVIEW:
This is such an interesting take on fantasy magic. Alyson did a fantastic job of giving detail and keeping the story flowing. The characters are likaeble and you instantly are curious about the blacksmith. He will be your next shadow daddy obsession. I wish there was more! The cliffhanger will drive readers mad but in the best way possible.
This is such an interesting take on fantasy magic. Alyson did a fantastic job of giving detail and keeping the story flowing. The characters are likaeble and you instantly are curious about the blacksmith. He will be your next shadow daddy obsession. I wish there was more! The cliffhanger will drive readers mad but in the best way possible.
August 4, 2025
Marked is a cozy fantasy book with a high stakes plot that will keep you on your toes! I thought I knew where this book was going but the ending has my jaw on the floor. The FMC is a strong, stubborn, and independent teacher who loves her students. The MMC is a mysterious and protective blacksmith shadowdaddy. The banter and tension between the two is amazing. I can’t wait for the next book!
August 17, 2025
This book was AMAZING. I can't wait for the next book. Alyson you done such an AMAZING job bringing Damien, Blair, and Blake to life. I will say I didn't expect Blair to stab herself with the dagger and save them all, but I'm so happy she did. You are an AMAZING author and are going to have everyone dying to read these books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2025
what just happened?!
This was so fun to read! I was not expecting the ending AT ALL! Also adding Blake was the perfect choice. I truly love his character. Also I know there are books out there with shadows but this one is very unique in its own way as to what they’re capable of and what role they play in the story. I highly recommend and can’t wait for the next one!
This was so fun to read! I was not expecting the ending AT ALL! Also adding Blake was the perfect choice. I truly love his character. Also I know there are books out there with shadows but this one is very unique in its own way as to what they’re capable of and what role they play in the story. I highly recommend and can’t wait for the next one!
July 26, 2025
ARC. I really loved these characters! The start was slow, as it is with a lot of fantasy books, but I devoured the second half! The romance is great as well as the tag along third main character. Excited to see what happens next!
July 29, 2025
Wow what a cliff hanger! The book was slow to start, the second half had me hooked though! I lovedddd Blake and the banter. And hello a new hot shadow daddy?! Yes please. So good. The magic, the adventure vibes, A+
August 15, 2025
Marked was an adventure of shadow warriors and fated mates.
I enjoyed reading Marked. The characters Damien, Blair and Blake interactions were passionate, interesting and believeable. It left me with some questions and wanting more.
I enjoyed reading Marked. The characters Damien, Blair and Blake interactions were passionate, interesting and believeable. It left me with some questions and wanting more.
October 9, 2025
This book was incredible! It kept my attention and consumed my thoughts until the last page. I would rate this 10/5 if I had the option. Not so patiently waiting for book 2 in the series to be released
December 13, 2025
Could not put down!
Read this is 2 DAYS! I did not want to put it down at all! An amazing story with ups and downs! Had me sitting on the edge of my chair at times! I cannot wait till I read more of Damian, Blair, and Blake!!
Read this is 2 DAYS! I did not want to put it down at all! An amazing story with ups and downs! Had me sitting on the edge of my chair at times! I cannot wait till I read more of Damian, Blair, and Blake!!
December 21, 2025
I never thought romantasy, was my thing.
Especially after reading Quicksilver.
But then there is Marked. I was hooked from day one. I don't think I ever read a book this fast.
The storyline between Damien and Blair is so good.
And the Shadows 🥵🥵🥵
Especially after reading Quicksilver.
But then there is Marked. I was hooked from day one. I don't think I ever read a book this fast.
The storyline between Damien and Blair is so good.
And the Shadows 🥵🥵🥵
August 8, 2025
Love the fantasy, romance, and writing in this book! It's a quicker read with some awesome shadow magic.
August 28, 2025
A great romantasy! It’s a slow burn but the connection between the 2 main characters is so beautiful. The spice is also very great 🤌🏻
November 3, 2025
Perfect mix of romance, spice, plot and even a good laugh or two. I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline and couldn’t put it down. Looking forward to book two!
November 21, 2025
A little slow at first but I enjoyed a lot about this book! The banter made me laugh and I’m excited for book 2.
December 8, 2025
Overall I enjoyed this story. There are aspects that I wish had been developed differently but the story is interesting and I look forward to seeing how it continues
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews